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Rimac, the electric automotive brand unveiled a new autonomous prototype robotaxi known as Verne. The vehicle achieves its autonomy by using various cameras with technology from Mobileye. This company develops self-driving software technology and partnered with multiple EV companies such as Polestar.
The company will begin production in 2026. Verne is negotiating with more than 30 cities worldwide, and the first robotaxi is set to launch into service in Zagreb, Croatia, 11 cities within the UK and Europe, and the Middle East.
Design of Autonomy Future
Verne robotaxi design is unconventional as the vehicle only seats two, for many this was a surprise but the company's explanation on why is simple, 9 out of 10 taxi trips are only for two occupants and if there are more, people usually order more than one taxi.
Simple enough to understand, but the design still takes on a new perspective, Tesla robotaxi which is still yet to be released at the time of writing promises a similar style of vehicle with more of a Cybertruck design influence.
Verne's design is based upon what the users will prioritise, which is why the company design starts from within with a cabin-like experience, somewhere one could relax for their journey without a lack of space is a major concern, Verne also brings along entertainment to the cabin, which is why the vehicle features a very impressive 43" display with 17 speakers, the infotainment system is there for numerous reasons including maps, music, watching a movie or playing a video game.
Verne is fully autonomous which means the company could focus on the user experience rather than the vehicle being designed from a driver's perspective, they removed the side view mirrors and windshield wipers, they believe this will add a certain level of lucidity to the user experience.
What we at Monument like most about Rimac robotaxi Verne is that it will be real and not just another dream.
Verne has a specially built platform, suited for the needs of autonomy above all. The car will utilise a group of cameras, and lidar sensors to drive without human assistance. Design to work on multiple road surfaces, and multiple weather conditions and to adapt to local driving styles of the areas.
The bespoke driving experience is at the forefront of thought for Verne, the doors will slide open and close which I have long thought was a needed feature in more modern vehicles and the company managed to create such an experience in a beautiful way without diminishing the overall design. The roof design also features a rounded transparent glass ceiling which they call a "Halo ring".
The car also has driving modes that feature up to five different comfort levels for the occupants, the touchscreens allow users to adjust the vehicle's settings. The car also houses a physical switch to to start and stop the car known as "Median" The company says it's designed to give the users a certain level of control if it's needed, one can imagine perhaps in emergencies.
It gets a little bit more exciting from here as the company's ambition is not only interested in creating an autonomous vehicle but also an ecosystem to fulfill its user's various needs such as a ride-hailing app which seems obvious in today's world, which is surprising is that the app will allow its users to personalise the cabin experience before the vehicles arrive for pick up such as lighting, temperature, and even scent, who wouldn't want a refreshing experience.
Even more exciting is Verne's infrastructure which will include a hub called the "Mothership" This is where the vehicle can be cleaned, inspected, maintained, and perhaps most importantly recharged.
The first hub/"Mothership" will be in Zagreb, next to the company's HQ.
Verne's first production facility is currently being built in Croatia, with the aim to launch the first taxis in the capital Zagreb in 2026. Following this the company will then launch the vehicle worldwide, starting within Europe and expanding to the Middle East shortly after.
VERNE
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A bold move by Rimac and the new company Verne. I believe this has multiple benefits strategically for business development to take one's technology and advance it in such a way that it could be beneficial to the companies involved in creating modern technologies such as autonomous driving and highly advanced technology in the EV space.
Developed by Rimac and its partners I believe this is strategically beneficial to Rimac as it's helping the company to advance itself into the world of technology beyond electric motors development, offering a vehicle that can be more commonly placed amongst everyday individuals in numerous cities that were all living in worldwide.
This is a very smart move by Rimac and you can tell that this company is one that likes to make smart decisions perhaps beginning with its decisions to accept investments from Porsche in the early days of the startup and later joining Rimac and Bugatti companies together to create one brand with shared technologies.
Together created perhaps the most beautiful car one has ever seen Bugatti Tourbillon. I believe this shows that there are many good things to come from Rimac, and I think Verne could be a huge success for all that are involved.
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